What term means that the employee reports to one specific supervisor?

The term that describes an employee reporting to one specific supervisor is "unity of command." This principle is a fundamental aspect of organizational structure and management. Unity of command ensures that each employee has a single point of authority, which helps to prevent confusion and conflicting instructions. By having one supervisor responsible for a direct report, it fosters clear communication and accountability, making it easier to manage performance and workflow.

In contrast, the other terms refer to different aspects of organizational structure: "span of supervision" relates to the number of employees that one supervisor manages, while "organizational chart" visually represents the structure of the organization including reporting lines. "Formal organization" refers broadly to the official structure of an organization, encompassing various roles and responsibilities, but does not specifically address the principle of having a single supervisor for an employee.